ERS2s

ERS2s refers to the second Earth observation satellite launched by the European Space Agency (ESA). It was the successor to the ERS1 satellite and was part of ESA's remote sensing program. ERS2 was launched on April 21, 1995, from the Kourou Space Centre in French Guiana. Its primary mission was to provide data for scientific research and operational applications related to Earth's oceans, land, and atmosphere.

The satellite carried a suite of advanced instruments designed for a wide range of Earth observation tasks. These included a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for imaging the Earth's surface regardless of weather conditions or daylight, an Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (ASTR) for precise sea surface temperature measurements, and a Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) for studying atmospheric ozone levels and other trace gases. ERS2's SAR was particularly notable for its ability to penetrate clouds and darkness, enabling continuous monitoring of various phenomena such as land use changes, ice coverage, and disaster areas.

ERS2 played a significant role in advancing our understanding of Earth system science. Its data contributed to numerous scientific studies on climate change, oceanography, and environmental monitoring. The mission extended beyond its planned lifespan, continuing to transmit valuable data until its de-orbiting in July 2011. The ERS program, including ERS2, laid crucial groundwork for subsequent ESA Earth observation missions and contributed to the global network of environmental monitoring satellites.